🇮🇱 Israel— Cash & Currency
Israel Tax Authority — Customs Directorate
2026-07-01
Declaration Threshold
US$13,000
USD
You must declare to customs if you are carrying cash, traveler's cheques, money orders, or negotiable bearer instruments totaling above this amount when entering or leaving Israel.
What Must Be Declared
| Instrument | Declaration Required |
|---|---|
| Physical currency (any currency) | Yes, if above threshold |
| Traveler's cheques | Yes, if above threshold |
| Bank drafts / money orders | Yes, if above threshold |
| Bearer bonds / negotiable instruments | Yes, if above threshold |
| Credit cards / debit cards | Generally no |
| Electronic payment apps | Generally no |
Failure to declare
Carrying undeclared cash above the threshold can result in seizure of funds, fines, and in some jurisdictions criminal prosecution. When in doubt, declare.
Additional Country Notes
- 01Ben Gurion Airport security screening is among the most thorough in the world; expect passenger interview and bag check on arrival and departure.
- 02Travelers with passports showing stamps from countries that don't recognise Israel (Iran, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq) may face additional questioning but entry is not denied.
- 03VAT refund (TAXFREE) at airport for tourist purchases over ILS 100 / VAT-eligible retailer.
- 04Kashrut not enforced at customs but commercial imports of non-kosher meat face separate scrutiny.